The twenty-first session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) and the
eleventh session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the
meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol (CMP) will take place from 30 November to 11 December 2015, in Paris, France. UNFCCC

1. Do you think we are on track to reach a climate change agreement in Paris?
2. How are climate change and the Paris Agreement linked with the sustainable development goals? 3. Why is it so urgent that we do something now?
4. In the context of a world threatened by disease, war and famine,
what makes you optimistic that world leaders can work together instead
of in their own interests?

FORUM : The COP21/CMP11 The conference objective is to achieve a legally binding and
universal agreement on climate, from all the nations of the world.
Leadership of the negotiations is yet to be determined.

Registration and the collection of the badges will take place at the
conference venue at the Paris-Le Bourget site (Parc des expositions du
Bourget). Badges are compulsoryfor participants to gain access to the
premises. They are issued only on the basis of being nominated from
Parties, observer States or observer organizations. You must first register at the registration desk, which will be open from: Sunday, 22 November to Friday, 11 December 2015

The atrocity crimes being committed against women and
girls in conflict zones, along with the domestic abuse found in all
countries, are grave threats to progress.
I am deeply concerned about the plight of women and girls living
in conditions of armed conflict, who suffer various forms of violence,
sexual assault, sexual slavery and trafficking. Violent extremists are
perverting religious teachings to justify the mass subjugation and
abuse of women. These are not random acts of violence, or the
incidental fallout of war, but rather systematic efforts to deny
women’s freedoms and control their bodies. As the world strives to
counter and prevent violence extremism, the protection and empowerment
of women and girls must be a key consideration.
Roughly half of today’s 60 million forcibly displaced people are
women. Many who flee war and violence are often exploited by
unscrupulous smugglers, and frequently suffer gender discrimination and
xenophobia in host societies. Those who are too young, too old or too
frail to make the risky journey are left behind even more vulnerable
without those who have left.
Even in areas at peace, violence against women
persists in the form of femicide, sexual assault, female genital
mutilation/cutting, early marriage and cyberviolence. These practices
traumatize individuals and tear at the fabric of society.
I have led a global response through the UNiTE to End
Violence against Women campaign and the HeForShe initiative to engage
men in promoting gender equality. I call on governments to increase
contributions to the United Nations Trust Fund to End Violence against
Women, which aims to address chronic underinvestment in this area.
Millions of people across the world are uniting under the
banner colour orange, chosen to symbolize the brighter future of a
world free from violence against women and girls. This year, in a sign
of the growing momentum for change, orange lights will illuminate
iconic landmarks from the historic ruins at Petra in Jordan to Niagara
Falls in North America.
We can also blaze a path to a future of dignity and
equality for all by implementing the newly adopted 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development, which recognizes the importance of eliminating
violence against women, with related targets across several of the
Sustainable Development Goals. Recent major reviews of United Nations
peace operations, peacebuilding efforts and the women, peace and
security agenda have all highlighted the critical value of women’s
participation in peace and security.
The pervasiveness of violence against women and girls
means we can all take steps to address it. Let us join forces to end
this crime, promote full gender equality and realize a world where
women and girls enjoy the safety they deserve – for their sake and for
all of humanity.

Across the world, violence against women and girls remains one of
the most serious—and the most tolerated—human rights violations, both a
cause and a consequence of gender inequality and discrimination.
Its continued presence is one of the clearest markers of societies out of balance and we are determined to change that.
On this International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women we say again:
It is not acceptable.
It is not inevitable.
It can be prevented.
Although there is no single solution to such a complex problem, there
is growing evidence of the range of actions that can stop violence
before it happens, especially if they are implemented in parallel.
Further research currently underway will lead to more definitive strategies and interventions to prevent violence.
We believe that, through concerted action by everyone involved, from
governments to individuals, we can tackle the unequal power relations
and structures between men and women and highlight the necessary
attitudinal, practice and institutional changes.
Imagine how
different the world would be for girls growing up now if we could
prevent early marriage, female genital mutilation, the turning of a
blind eye to domestic violence, abusive text messages, the impunity of
rapists, the enslavement of women in conflict areas, the killing of
women human rights defenders, or the hostility of police stations or
courtrooms to women’s testimony of violence experienced.
We have
made progress in improving the laws that distinguish these acts and
others as ones of violence and invasion of human rights. Some 125
countries have laws against sexual harassment, 119 have laws against
domestic violence, but only 52 countries have laws on marital rape.
We know that leaders, whether CEOs, Prime Ministers, or teachers, can set the tone for zero tolerance to violence.
Community mobilization, group interventions for both women and men,
educational programmes and empowerment of women are some of the
interventions that have impact, when they are put together with other
legal, behavioural and social changes.
For example, in Uganda,
engaging communities in discussion of unequal power relations between
men and women dropped rates of physical violence by men against their
partners by half.
In Myanmar, provision of legal aid services for
rural women is improving access to justice and the training of even a
small group of male leaders has been identified as contributing to a
change of behaviour in some 40 per cent of those in the target
communities.
We are doing pre-deployment training for
peacekeepers to be more gender sensitive and to better protect civilian
populations in conflict areas.
And in the United States, urban
police officers trained to recognize the warning signs of intimate
partner violence, are making some progress in reducing the numbers of
murdered women.
As we launch the Orange the World Campaign today,
we already know that tuk-tuk drivers in Cambodia, soccer stars in
Turkey, police officers in Albania, school children in South Africa and
Pakistan, and hundreds of thousands of others around the world, are all
in their own way taking a stand.
We now have, for the first time,
explicit targets to eliminate violence against women in the 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development. These demand accelerated action.
When more than 70 world leaders took the podium in New York at the
Global Leaders’ Meeting on Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment on 27
September 2015, the majority named ending violence against women and
girls as a priority for action.
It is indeed a priority.
I
believe that if we all work together: governments, civil society
organizations, the UN system, businesses, schools, and individuals
mobilizing through new solidarity movements, we will eventually achieve a
more equal world—a Planet 50-50—where women and girls can and will live
free from violence.

From 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to 10 December, Human Rights Day, the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign is a time to galvanize action to end violence against women and girls around the world.

The IYP 2016 creates a unique opportunity to encourage connections
throughout the food chain that would better utilize pulse-based
proteins, further global production of pulses, better utilize crop
rotations and address the challenges in the trade of pulses.

Five things we learned from the launch of the International Year of Pulses

The official launch of the
International Year of Pulses took place on 10 November at FAO
Headquarters in Rome. With over 200 participants and many more viewers
worldwide, the event welcomed high level attendance from government
ministries, civil society and the private sector. The speakers and
special guests highlighted the many benefits of pulses, and also brought
to light some of the obstacles facing the global production, supply and
trade of the crops.

Here are five key facts we learned about pulses from the featured guests and speakers during the launch:

1. Pulses are an indispensable crop for vulnerable communities in developing countries.

In developing countries, pulses make up 75 percent of the average
diet, compared to 25 percent in industrialized countries. They provide
an affordable alternative to animal protein: pulses contain 20 to 25
percent protein by weight, whereas wheat has 10 percent and meat has 30
to 40 percent. Pulses are an increasingly important crop for smallholder
farmers, particularly female farmers who hold a larger share in the
labour force in pulses farming.

2. Lentils, beans and chickpeas have been an essential part of human diets for centuries.

Archaeological remains found in Anatolia (modern day Turkey) show
that ancient agricultural production of chickpeas and lentils dates back
to 7000 - 8000 B.C. Today, wild relatives of lentils and peas are still
seen in the southeast Anatolian region, and samples have been collected
and protected in Turkey’s gene banks.

3. Pulses consumption is declining.

Although world pulses production has increased by over 20 percent in
the past 10 years, consumption has seen a slow but steady decline in
both developed and developing countries in the same period. This may be
partially due to an inability for pulses production to keep pace with a
growing population, as well as a shift in many countries to more
meat-centric diets.

4. Science and technology innovations can help close the yield gap in pulses production.

Crop genetic improvement, selective breeding and sustainable
intensive farming have been proven to increase yield potential and
climate resilience in pulses. Improved varieties of heat-tolerant faba
beans in Sudan helped increase production by 60 kilograms per hectare.
In Turkey, the specially developed Gokce variety of chickpea withstood
severe drought and produced when most other crops failed.

5. Pulses production is highly water efficient, especially when compared to other protein sources.

Production of daal (split peas or lentils) requires 50 litres of
water per kilogram. Conversely, one kilogram of chicken requires 4325
litres of water, one kilogram of mutton requires 5520 litres, and one
kilogram of beef requires 13000 litres of water during production. Their
small water footprint makes pulses production a smart choice in drier
areas and regions prone to drought.

For a full recap of the event, read the press release and check out the Storify below.

In recognition of the increasing impact television has on
decision-maSking by bringing world attention to conflicts and threats to
peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on
other major issues, including economic and social issues, the United
Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day
(through resolution 51/205 of 17 December 1996).

World Television Day is not so much a celebration of the tool,
but rather the philosophy which it represents. Television represents a
symbol for communication and globalization in the contemporary world.

To
mark World Television Day on Saturday 21 November, TV organisations from
around the world have brought together the latest statistics to reveal
how millennials’ relationship with TV looks today. With data from 10
countries – including the US, Canada, Australia, Germany, the UK, and
France – the insights show how much TV millennials now watch, how it is
the dominant form of video in their lives, how important the TV set
remains, the huge reach of TV, and their attitudes towards TV
advertising.

Although different countries measure and report TV consumption in
different ways, what is clear from statistics from across the world is
that young people are watching a lot of TV:

* In the USA, 18-24s watch an average of 2 hours, 33 minutes of TV a
day, 25-34s watch an average of 3 hours, 50 minutes a day (source:
Nielsen, ‘Total Audience Report’, Q2 2015)

* 15-34s in Ireland watch an average 2 hours, 25 minutes of TV a day.
86% of this is watched live (source: Nielsen, Jan-Oct 2015)

* 16-34s in the UK watch 2 hours, 23 minutes of linear TV on a TV set a day (source: BARB, H1 2015)

Some new video services, such as Netflix and YouTube, have gained
popularity in recent years. The data gathered from different countries
shows their popularity among younger generations relative to TV:

* TV accounts for 65% of 16-24s’ total video consumption in the UK;
7% is YouTube and 4% is Subscription VOD services such as Netflix
(source: Thinkbox, ‘Truth about youth’, 2015)

*18-34s in Canada spend 7.6 times more time watching TV each week
than they do on YouTube (19 hours vs. 2.5 hours), 17 times more time
with TV than with Netflix (1.1 hours) and 3.3 times more with TV than
they spend on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter combined (5.2 hours/ 0.4
hours / 0.2 hours respectively) (source: Digital: comScore Media Metrix;
Multi-Platform; Sept 2014 - Aug 2015)

*TV accounts for 41% of 14-24s’ media day in the UK. The next most
popular media activity is social networking/messaging, which accounts
for 15.7% (source: IPA Touchpoints, 2014)

*In the USA, 18-34s spend more time online with ad-supported TV
brands than with Google, AOL, MSN and Yahoo! combined or with Facebook.
On average, 18-34s in the US spend 39 minutes a month watching TV online
compared with 25 minutes with Google/AOL/MSN/Yahoo! and 23 minutes with
Facebook (source: Nielsen Npower Live+7 July 2015 P18-34/ VAB analysis
of comScore duplicated July 2015 data, mediametrix, multiplatform
A18-34)

*38% of 15-34s in Belgium say TV is the medium they would miss the
most compared to 16% for social networks (source: TNS, ‘La perception
des médias’, 2015)

*For 18-24s in Australia it is a similar picture: 60.9% with
broadcast TV on a TV set, 21.9% on laptops, 12.5% on smartphones and
4.7% on tablets (source: ‘Australian Multi-Screen report Q2 2015’)

*The TV set is by far the most popular device for 15-34s in Finland.
60% of their time spent watching TV and other video content is on TV
sets (source: Nelonen media/TNS Gallup, ‘The Future of TV May’, 2015)

*99% of 13-34s in the Netherlands own a TV set (source: VIMN/BrandDeli, ‘TV (Re)defined’)

*Similarly, in Germany, 76% of 14-25s’ total video contact continues
to happen on the TV set (source: IP Fourscreen Touchpoints, 2014)

*In Sweden, 51% of 18-34s’ prefer to watch any video content on a TV
set, 33% prefer a laptop, 10% prefer a tablet and 5% opt for their
mobile device (source: Reklamkraft, 2015)

TV is the world’s most popular medium for every age group. In an average week, TV reaches:

The data also shows that Millennials are more favourable towards TV advertising than other forms:
*16-24s in the UK find TV advertising more enjoyable, memorable and
humorous than any other media. 54% enjoy TV advertising, compared to 16%
for social media; 69% say TV advertising makes them laugh, compared to
24% for social; and 73% say TV advertising is memorable, compared to 17%
for social media (source: Ipsos Mori, ‘TV Nation’, 2014)

*65.7% of Italian 18-34s of 18-34s claim they pay attention to TV
advertising. They also consider it to be more useful than the average
population (source: Gfk Eurisko, 2015)

*In Canada, 18-34s say they are most likely to pay attention to
advertising on TV than other media: 39% picked TV, compared to 12% for
Social Networks and 2% for mobile. They also chose TV as the form of
video advertising they are most likely to watch: 64% for TV compared to
7% for phone, 11% for tablet and 16% for computer (source: Omnivu
survey, 2015)

The global exchanges of television programmes focusing on peace,
security, economic and social development and the enhancement of
cultural exchange indicate the growing significance of television in
today's changing world. The information sharing through television
facilitates social and cultural communication and encourages
cooperation and partnerships in the world.

UN on YouTube
The United Nations Channel on YouTube features videos on a wide
range of global topics including current news, peace and security,
social and economic development, human rights and climate change.

Why television?

Television:
a cornerstone of democracy and a pillar of freedom of expression and
cultural diversity. It nurtures education, continually invites people to
explore beyond their living rooms and arouses curiosity.

It is a wonderful ambassador for the entertainment industry: not
only does it help reveal fresh talent and discover new music, it also
stimulates and kindles our musical heritage while encouraging the fusion
of styles and artists.

Furthermore, television cultivates generosity and care,
underpinning many charitable organisations’ fundraising events. Sports
events’ broadcasts inspire people to go beyond their personal limits and
gather billions of viewers around sound and positive values.
By offering quality entertainment, television provides an avenue of
dreams and wonder to households around the world.

World Fisheries Day is celebrated on 21st November every year around the
world. This day aims to highlight the value of human life and the
creatures living in water. It tries to highlight the problems related to
fisheries like overfishing, bad way of fishing and unsustainable
fishing methods. Apart from this it also attempts to address the
pollution problems in ocean and coastal areas.
On this special day the participating members discuss these problems
and come up with several corrective measures which can be implemented.
Most of the countries, who are involved in fisheries development, are
facing the problems of unequal distribution of fish stock. The main
reason for the inadequacy is the rising world population and demand has
been increased exponentially. Now on this day all the countries sent
their representatives to show case their point of view on a world forum.
There is a need of increased level cooperation among the members so
that common solutions can be obtained.

The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) is the flagship
publication of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department. This
premier advocacy document is published every two years to provide
policy-makers, civil society and those whose livelihoods depend on the
sector a comprehensive, objective and global view of capture fisheries
and aquaculture, including associated policy issues.

In recent years, many countries in Africa have experienced
significant economic growth and progress in human development.
However, inclusive and sustainable industrial development remains
elusive. Youth unemployment and gender inequity jeopardize the
continent’s efforts to eradicate poverty.
The private sector in Africa contributes to a projected 80 per
cent of the continent’s Gross Domestic Product and supports an
estimated 90 per cent of all jobs. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
have a pivotal role to play in the industrial development of Africa.
Nevertheless, opportunities for youth and women generated by SMEs are
limited, thus failing to harness the full entrepreneurial potential of
the continent. This means less capacity for transformative
socio-economic development, innovation and value addition.
I welcome the theme for this year’s Africa Industrialization Day:
“SMEs for Poverty Eradication and Job Creation for Women and Youth”.
Africa needs to invest in training and education for women and youth
to industrialize, grow the private sector and achieve sustainable
development. SMEs can provide a solid foundation for sustained
economic growth, job creation and poverty eradication.
The important contribution of inclusive and sustainable
industrialization in helping Africa to overcome its critical
development challenges is clearly recognized in the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development, adopted by United Nations Member States in
September. On this year’s Africa Industrialization Day, I reaffirm the
commitment of the United Nations to enhance Africa’s SME sector and
stimulate economic opportunities for women and youth to promote the
continent’s progress towards economically enriched, socially inclusive
and prosperous societies.

Ban Ki-moon

Did you know?

Africa’s growth has continued to increase, rising from 3.7 % in 2013 to 3.9 % in 2014.

However, the pace of Africa’s industrialization has been slow. Africa's share of global manufacturing exports is a meagre 1.9 %, compared to over 16 % for East Asia.

Moreover, Africa is marginalised in world trade. The continent’s share in global exports has remained at roughly 3.3 % since 2010.

Today, Africa has over 82 trillion dollars in discovered natural resources. Africa must add value to these resources, to maintain the wealth within the continent.

Africa needs a stable trajectory for economic growth and prosperity. To achieve that, Africa must industrialize as prioritised by the African Union's Agenda 2063.

1. Africa is the least developed region of the world in terms of industrialization. It accounts for a negligible share of global industrial output and manufactured exports. Only in a few of the countries is the manufacturing value added/GDP ratio above 20 pe rcent. In a large number of African countries, the manufacturing sector’s contribution to GDP is less than 15 per cent and in some cases lower than 5 per cent. The output of the sector is heavily concentrated on low technology products such as food, texti les, clothing, footwear, etc. The majority of African countries are yet to be involved in any significant sense in the medium - and high - technology segments of global manufacturing that have been characterized by dynamism and rapid growth in recent years. The African economy is heavily dependent on the production and exports of primary products and consequently suffers from the associated risks of this dependence. The continent must take advantage of new opportunities offered by globalization by preparing e nterprises, putting in place policies for upgrading, developing human resources, strengthening its capacities for innovation, by accepting the facts of industrialization.

2. Industrialization is a critical engine of economic growth and development. Indeed, industrialization is the essence of development. That Africa remains the poorest region of the world, where 34 of the 50 least developed countries are located and in which p overty is on the increase, is a reflection of its low level of industrialization and marginalization in global manufacturing. There exists a strong linkage between industrial productive capacity, economic growth, and level of development. The developing re gions and countries that are sharing in the benefits of globalization, making progress towards the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and moving up on the ladder of development are the rapidly industrializing ones. Africa has not benefi ted much from the process of globalization and risks not meeting the MDGs in spite of its richness in natural resources.

3. African Heads of State and Government have in recent years taken a number of major initiatives, to meet the challenges of development, to reverse the marginalization of Africa in the global economy and polity, and to claim the 21 st Century for the peoples of the continent. These include the establishment of the African Union (AU) and the adoption of the New Partnership for Africa’s Devel opment (NEPAD) as the strategic programme of the Union.

Africa has witnessed improved growth in recent years – averaging 5.5 per
cent per annum. Nevertheless, poverty remains a serious challenge. This
is because growth alone is not sufficient to propel broad-based
development. For growth to be translated into sustained poverty
reduction, greater attention needs to be placed on the quality of
growth, its sustainability and spread. In this context, greater access
to, acquisition and application of science, technology and innovation
are critical for African countries to raise the quality of their human
capital and consequently, enhance pro-poor growth. UNIDO's AFRICA PROGRAMME.

The delivery of UNIDO technical assistance in the region amounted to US$ 37.8 million in 2013 and US$ 41.2 million in 2014. Moreover, during the 2013-2014 Biennium, UNIDO developed several country programmes in the region, of which 13 were approved and signed. As of April 2015, there were 17 country programmes under development. UNIDO also convened a number of events, including conferences and other thematic global forums in the region. The region covered by UNIDO’s Africa Bureau comprises 45 sub-Saharan countries, including 20 Middle Income Countries (MICs), 31 Least Developed Countries (LDCs, out of 34 in African continent); 16 of the world’s 32 Land-Locked Developing Countries (LLDCs) and five Small Island Developing States (SIDS, out of 51 in the world).

The Universal Children's Day is dedicated to promoting the
well-being and human rights of the world's children, especially those
suffering the impacts of poverty, armed conflict, discrimination and
exploitation. The date of the observance -- 20 November -- marks the
day on which, in 1989, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the
Convention on the Rights of the Child. Today, we reaffirm our
obligation to do everything in our power to enable all children to
survive and thrive, learn and grow, have their voices heard and reach
their full potential.
This year, I wish to emphasize the importance of ensuring that
the commitments made by the international community to the world's
children are extended to a group of children who are often forgotten or
overlooked: those deprived of their liberty.
Far too many children languish in jail, mental health facilities
or through other forms of detention. Some children are vulnerable
because they are migrants, asylum seekers, homeless or preyed on by
organized criminals. Whatever the circumstances, the Convention
dictates that the deprivation of liberty must be a measure of last
resort, and for the shortest time. Our aim must be to pursue the best
interests of the child, prevent the deprivation of liberty and promote
alternatives to detention.
With that in mind, and further to a request by the General
Assembly, the United Nations is preparing a Global Study that aims to
shine a light on the scale and conditions of children deprived of their
liberty and secure the protection of their rights. The study will
gather relevant data, identify good practices and help countries grasp
the worrisome magnitude of the phenomenon and design measures to
address it. A coalition of UN actors has come together to assemble
resources and expertise to take the study forward. I strongly support
this effort and urge Member States to do so as well.
This year's observance falls at a time when 60 million people
have been forcibly displaced from their homes – more than at any time
since the Second World War. Almost half of them are children fleeing
oppression, terrorism, violence and other violations of their human
rights. This observance also comes following the landmark adoption of
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which can point the way
towards peaceful, prosperous and inclusive societies for all.
Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals will depend crucially on
reaching the most vulnerable children.
On Universal Children's Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to a
future in which no child is left behind, including those deprived of
their liberty.

The one thing all children have in common is their rights. Every
child has the right to survive and thrive, to be educated, to be free
from violence and abuse, to participate and to be heard .

UN
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

On the basis of the Convention on the rights of the children and joint effort by all the countries
and regions, let us promote and celebrate children’s right on the
Universal Children's Day, and continuously build up a living-friendly
environment for children in the world through dialogues and actions.

Numerous
schools and other instructive establishments endeavor to illuminate
offspring of their rights as indicated by the Rights’ Declaration of the
Child and the Convention on the Child’s Rights. Instructors animate
their students to consider the contrasts in the middle of themselves as
well as other people and clarify the thought of “rights”. In nations
where the privileges of youngsters are by and large very much regarded,
educators may attract consideration regarding circumstances in nations
where this is not the situation.
In a few regions UNICEF holds
occasions to attract specific consideration regarding kids’ rights.
These may be to fortify enthusiasm for the media around the globe or to
begin across the country battles, for example on the significance of
inoculations or breastfeeding.
Numerous nations, including Canada,
New Zealand and the United Kingdom, hold Universal Children’s Day
occasions on November 20 to stamp the Declaration’s commemorations of
the Child’s Rights and the Convention on the Child’s Rights. Then again,
different nations hold occasions on diverse dates, for example, the
fourth Wednesday in October (Australia) and November 14 (India). General
Children’s Day is not saw in the United States, in spite of the fact
that a comparative recognition, National Child’s Day, is hung on the
first Sunday in June.
- See more at: http://edyoucatives.com/universal-childrens-day-20-november/#sthash.FG2zMdVt.dpuf

Numerous schools and other instructive establishments endeavor to illuminate offspring of their rights as indicated by the Rights’ Declaration of the Child and the Convention on the Child’s Rights. Instructors animate their students to consider the contrasts in the middle of themselves as well as other people and clarify the thought of “rights”. In nations where the privileges of youngsters are by and large very much regarded, educators may attract consideration regarding circumstances in nations where this is not the situation. In a few regions UNICEF holds occasions to attract specific consideration regarding kids’ rights. These may be to fortify enthusiasm for the media around the globe or to begin across the country battles, for example on the significance of inoculations or breastfeeding. Numerous nations, including Canada, New Zealand and the United Kingdom, hold Universal Children’s Day occasions on November 20 to stamp the Declaration’s commemorations of the Child’s Rights and the Convention on the Child’s Rights. Then again, different nations hold occasions on diverse dates, for example, the fourth Wednesday in October (Australia) and November 14 (India). General Children’s Day is not saw in the United States, in spite of the fact that a comparative recognition, National Child’s Day, is hung on the first Sunday in June.

Check
out the free UN Calendar of Observances iPhone app.!It features
official UN observances and links to related videos and further
information. The app also illustrates how the UN makes a difference in
tackling global challenges.

It functions in Chinese, Spanish and English. Arabic, French and Russian versions will be available in early 2014.

UN Audio Library

UNIS Handbook for Journalists and 2011 Calendar

For all UNIS press releases and information on all UNIS eventsand press briefings, go to www.unis.unvienna.org

“Chemistry – Our life, our future”, IYC 2011

United Nations activities and programmes.

United Nations observances contribute to the achievement of the purposes of the UN Charter and promote awareness of and action on important political, social, cultural, humanitarian or human rights issues. They provide a useful means for the promotion of international and national action and stimulate interest in United Nations activities and programmes. For international years and decades the UN Secretary General takes action to establish the preparatory process, evaluation and follow-up procedures.

In 1950, the General Assembly approved the first international day — Human Rights Day — to be observed on 10 December. Resolution 423 (V) invited all states and international organizations to observe this day to celebrate the proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights by the General Assembly on 10 December 1948, and to exert increasing efforts in this field.

In 1978, the General Assembly by its resolution S-10/2 proclaimed the first international week — the week starting 24 October (the day of the founding of the UN) — as a week devoted to fostering the objectives of disarmament (Disarmament Week).

The first international year was proclaimed by the General Assembly in 1959. It was the World Refugee Year [Resolution 1285 (XIII)].

The first UN decade was the United Nations Development Decade designated by the General Assembly in 1961 [Resolution 1710 (XVI)].

1971–1980 : Second United Nations Development Decade - A/RES/2626 (XXV)

1970s : Disarmament Decade - A/RES/2602 E (XXIV)

1960–1970 : United Nations Development Decade - A/RES/1710 (XVI)

31 January

World Leprosy Day is celebrated on the last Sunday in January in over 100 countries.

02 February

The international theme 2011 is "wetlands and forests - forests for water and wetlands"

04 February

WHO estimates that 84 million people will die of cancer between 2005 and 2015 without intervention.

06 February

WHO is committed to the elimination of female genital mutilation within a generation and is focusing on advocacy, research and guidance for health professionals and health systems.

20 February

Observance of World Day of Social Justice should support efforts of the international community in poverty eradication, the promotion of full employment and decent work, gender equity and access to social well-being and justice for all.

21 February

2011 International Mother Language Day: The information and communication technologies for the safeguarding and promotion of languages and linguistic diversity

08 March

International Women Day 2011: Equal access to education, training and science and technology: Pathway to decent work for women

21 March

Elimination of Racial Discrimination

21 March in Australia

Hamony Day - Everyone Belongs

22 March

Theme 2011 - Water for Cities : Responding to the Urban Challenge

24 March

04 April

Mine Awareness and assistance in Mine Action

07 April

Theme 2011 : Antimicrobial resistance and its global spread

20 April

22 April

2011 theme : Pledge your Act today!

23 April

25 April

26 April

03 May

09 May

22 May

29 May

LAW.ORDER.PEACE.

31 May

"The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control" as the theme 2011

05 June

08 June

14 June

" More Blood, More Life "

17 June

20 JUNE

25 June

26 June

11 July

28 July

The first official WHO World Hepatitis Day is marked to increase the awareness and understanding of viral hepatitis and the diseases that it causes.

1 to 7 August

Breastfeeding is the best way to provide newborns with the nutrients they need.

19 August

To pay respect to those who have died or been injured in the course of their humanitarian work.

24 August

"Water for Life "

30 August

08 September

10 September

World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September promotes worldwide commitment and action to prevent suicides.

26 September

28 September

World Rabies Day highlights the impact of human and animal rabies and promotes how to prevent and stop the disease by combating it in animals.

29 September

Cardiovascular diseases are the world’s largest killers, claiming 17.1 million lives a year.

26 to 30 September

04 October

05 October

10 October

13 October

"Vision 2020: The Right to Sight",

16 October

20 October

27 October

06 November

10 November

11 November

14 November

WHO estimates that more than 220 million people worldwide have diabetes. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without intervention.

16 November

World COPD Day is a global effort to expand understanding of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and advocate for better care for patients.

20 November

Road traffic crashes kill nearly 1.3 million people every year and injure or disable as many as 50 million more.

21 November

25 November

Violence against women and girls is a problem of pandemic proportions.

01 December

World AIDS Day on 1 December draws together people from around the world to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate international solidarity in the face of the pandemic.

United Nations International Days

27 January International Day of Commemoration in Memory of the Victims of the Holocaust A/RES/60/7

February

4 February World Cancer Day [WHO] 20 February World Day of Social Justice 21 February International Mother Language Day [UNESCO]

March

8 March International Women's Day21 March International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination 21 March World Poetry Day [UNESCO] 21 March International Day of Nowruz23 March World Meteorological Day [WMO] 24 March World Tuberculosis Day [WHO] 24 March International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims 25 March International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade25 March International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members —

April

2 April World Autism Awareness Day 4 April International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action 7 April Day of Remembrance of the Victims of the Rwanda Genocide7 April World Health Day [WHO] 12 April International Day of Human Space Flight 22 April International Mother Earth Day 23 April World Book and Copyright Day [UNESCO]25 April World Malaria Day [WHO] 26 April World Intellectual Property Day [WIPO] 28 April World Day for Safety and Health at Work [ILO] 29 April Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare

May

Day of Vesak 3 May World Press Freedom Day 8–9 May Time of Remembrance and Reconciliation for Those Who Lost Their Lives during the Second World War 14–15 May World Migratory Bird Day [UNEP] 15 May International Day of Families 17 May World Telecommunication and Information Society Day [ITU] 21 May World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development 22 May International Day for Biological Diversity 29 May International Day of UN Peacekeepers31 May World No-Tobacco Day [WHO]

June

4 June International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression 5 June World Environment Day [UNEP]8 June World Oceans Day 12 June World Day Against Child Labour [ILO] 14 June World Blood Donor Day [WHO] 17 June World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought20 June World Refugee Day 23 June United Nations Public Service Day 23 June International Widow’s Day25 June Day of the Seafarer [IMO] 26 June International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking 26 June United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

July

2 July International Day of Cooperatives 11 July World Population Day UNDP decision 89/4618 July Nelson Mandela International Day 28 July World Hepatitis Day —30 July International Day of Friendship

August

9 August International Day of the World's Indigenous People12 August International Youth Day 19 August World Humanitarian Day 23 August International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition [UNESCO]29 August International Day against Nuclear Tests 30 August International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances

September

8 September International Literacy Day [UNESCO]10 September World Suicide Prevention Day [WHO] 15 September International Day of Democracy 16 September International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer 21 September International Day of Peace 25 September World Heart Day [WHO] 27 September World Tourism Day [UNWTO] 28 September World Rabies Day [WHO] 29 September World Maritime Day [IMO]

October

1 October International Day of Older Persons 2 October International Day of Non-Violence 3 October World Habitat Day 5 October World Teachers’ Day [UNESCO]9 October World Post Day [UPU] 10 October World Mental Health Day [WHO] 13 October International Day for Disaster Reduction 13 October World Sight Day [WHO] 15 October International Day of Rural Women 16 October World Food Day [FAO] 17 October International Day for the Eradication of Poverty 24 October United Nations Day24 October World Development Information Day 27 October World Day for Audiovisual Heritage [UNESCO]

November

6 November International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict 10 November World Science Day for Peace and Development [UNESCO] 14 November World Diabetes Day [WHO]16 November International Day for Tolerance 17 November World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day [WHO] 17 November World Philosophy Day [UNESCO] 20 November Universal Children’s Day 20 November Africa Industrialization Day 20 November World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims21 November World Television Day25 November International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women 29 November International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People

December

1 December World AIDS Day2 December International Day for the Abolition of Slavery3 December International Day of Persons with Disabilities5 December International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development 7 December International Civil Aviation Day [ICAO] 9 December International Anti-Corruption Day 10 December Human Rights Day11 December International Mountain Day 18 December International Migrants Day 19 December United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation 20 December International Human Solidarity Day

About the United Nations

This site provides a list of the 192 Member States of the UN, data on each country, how much each country pays to the UN (see Contribution to the UN Budget), and various sources of country information (see Related Links > Information Sources)

World Water Day - 22/03/2010

Water is the source of life and the link that binds all living beings on this planet. It is connected directly to all our United Nations goals: improved maternal and child health and life expectancy, women’s empowerment, food security, sustainable development and climate change adaptation and mitigation. Recognition of these links led to the declaration of 2005-2015 as the International Decade for Action “Water for Life”.

World Tuberculosis Day - 24/03/2010

Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade - 25/03/2010

Slavery is abhorrent. It is explicitly prohibited by the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the United Nations has reaffirmed this principle many times, including in the Durban Declaration adopted at the 2001 World Conference Against Racism.

But slavery and slavery-like practices continue in many parts of the world. Slavery is mutating and re-emerging in modern forms, including debt bondage, the sale of children, and the trafficking of women and girls for sex. Its roots lie in ignorance, intolerance and greed.

We must create a climate in which such abuse and cruelty are inconceivable. One way is by remembering the past and honouring the victims of the transatlantic slave trade. By reminding ourselves of past injustices, we help to ensure that such systematic abuse of human rights can never be repeated.

We see the legacy of the transatlantic slave trade in all the countries it affected. If we are wise, we will use this legacy for good. We will recognize that it is clear evidence of what can happen, if intolerance, racism and greed are allowed to triumph.

We should also take heart from those who, with great courage, succeeded in ending this institutionalized abuse. Their bravery ensured the eventual triumph of the values the United Nations represents: tolerance, justice, and respect for the dignity and worth of all human beings.

Today, we salute all the victims of slavery and we commit ourselves to ensuring that this practice, in all its forms, is eradicated.

World Book and Copyright Day - 23/04/2010

23 April is a symbolic date for world literature for on this date in 1616, Cervantes, Shakespeare and Inca Garcilaso de la Vega all died. It is also the date of birth or death of other prominent authors such as Maurice Druon, Haldor K.Laxness, Vladimir Nabokov, Josep Pla and Manuel Mejía Vallejo.

It was a natural choice for UNESCO's General Conference, held in Paris in 1995, to pay a world-wide tribute to books and authors on this date, encouraging everyone, and in particular young people, to discover the pleasure of reading and gain a renewed respect for the irreplaceable contributions of those who have furthered the social and cultural progress of humanity. In this respect, UNESCO created both the World Book and Copyright Day and the UNESCO Prize for Children's and Young People's Literature in the Service of Tolerance.

World Press Freedom Day - 3/05/2010

World Press Freedom Day was established by the General Assembly of the United Nations in December, 1993, as an outgrowth of the Seminar on Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press. This Seminar took place in Windhoek, Namibia, in 1991 and led to the adoption of the Windhoek Declaration on Promoting Independent and Pluralistic Media (www.misanet.org/charters/windhoek.html). The Windhoek Declaration called for the establishment, maintenance and fostering of an independent, pluralistic and free press and emphasized the importance of a free press to the development and maintenance of democracy in a nation, and for economic development. World Press Freedom Day is celebrated annually on May 3rd, the date on which the Windhoek Declaration was adopted.

International Day of Families - 15/05/2010

The United Nations General Assembly, in its resolution 47/237 of 20 September 1993, proclaimed that 15 May of every year shall be observed as the International Day of Families. This annual observance reflects the importance which the international community attaches to families as basic units of society as well as its concern regarding their situation around the world. The International Day of Families provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families as well as to promote appropriate action. The Day can become a powerful mobilizing factor on behalf of families in all countries, which avail themselves of this opportunity and demonstrate support of family issues appropriate to each society. (TEST2)

World No Tobacco Day - 31/05/2010

THE SECRETARY-GENERAL's MESSAGE ON WORLD NO TOBACCO DAY31 May 2009

Every year, some 5.4 million people die from illnesses caused by tobacco consumption – 80 per cent of them in low- and middle-income countries. Up to half of all smokers die from a tobacco-related disease, and science has shown that second-hand smoke harms everyone who is exposed to it. Left unchecked, tobacco-related deaths will rise to more than 8 million by 2030.

Lung cancer, heart disease and other tobacco-related illnesses are part of a broader epidemic of non-communicable diseases, which include strokes, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes. These diseases have become the world’s leading cause of mortality. Sixty per cent of all deaths globally are caused by them, with women being the hardest hit.

That we continue to allow such diseases to be caused by tobacco consumption is a global tragedy. It also comes at vast expense. Economies are harmed by the costs of treating of tobacco-caused diseases and by decreased productivity due to illness and premature death, while families whose members die or become ill due to tobacco use endure an unnecessary financial burden.

On this World No Tobacco Day, I urge governments everywhere to address this needless threat to public health.

World No Tobacco Day is observed around the world every year on May 31. The member states of the World Health Organization created World No Tobacco Day in 1987. It draws global attention to the tobacco epidemic and to the preventable death and disease it causes. It aims to reduce the 3.5 million yearly deaths from tobacco related health problems.

World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims - 21/11/2010

This Observance occurs on the third Sunday of November, annually

On 26 October 2005, the General Assembly invited Member States and the international community to recognize the third Sunday in November of every year as the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims as acknowledgement for victims of road traffic crashes and their families ( resolution 60/5 ).

World Television Day - 21/11/2010

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 21 November as World Television Day (through resolution 51/205 of 17 December 1996). This was done in recognition of the increasing impact television has on decision-making by alerting world attention to conflicts and threats to peace and security and its potential role in sharpening the focus on other major issues, including economic and social issues.

On 21 and 22 November 1996 the United Nations held the first World Television Forum, where leading media figures met under the auspices of the United Nations to discuss the growing significance of television in today's changing world and to consider how they might enhance their mutual cooperation. That is why the General Assembly decided to proclaim 21 November as World Television Day - to commemorate the date on which the first World Television Forum was held.

The celebration highlights how communications have become one of today's central international issues, not only for their relevance to the world economy, but also for their implications for social and cultural development. The celebration also underlines the ever-increasing demands faced by the United Nations to address the major issues facing humankind - and that television - as one of today's most powerful communications media, could play a role in presenting these issues to the world.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women - 25/11/2010

By resolution 54/134 of 17 December 1999, the General Assembly designated 25 November as theInternational Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, andinvited governments, international organizations and NGOs to organizeactivities designated to raise public awareness of the problem on thatday. Women's activists have marked 25 November as a day againstviolence since 1981. This date came from the brutal assassination in1960, of the three Mirabal sisters, political activists in theDominican Republic, on orders of Dominican ruler Rafael Trujillo(1930-1961).

International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People - 29/11/2010

The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed by the United Nations on or around 29 November each year, in accordance with General Assembly mandates contained in resolutions 32/40 B of 2 December 1977 , 34/65 D of 12 December 1979 , and subsequent resolutions adopted under agenda item “Question of Palestine.”

The date of 29 November was chosen because of its meaning and significance to the Palestinian people. On that day in 1947, the General Assembly adopted resolution 181 (II) ,which came to be known as the Partition Resolution. That resolution provided for the establishment in Palestine of a “Jewish State” and an“Arab State”, with Jerusalem as a corpus separatum under a special international regime. Of the two States to be created under this resolution, only one, Israel, has so far come into being.

The Palestinian people, who now number more than eight million,live primarily in the Palestinian territory occupied by Israel since1967, including East Jerusalem; in Israel; in neighbouring Arab States;and in refugee camps in the region.

World AIDS Day - 1/12/2010

The General Assembly, in 1988, stated its deep concern about the pandemic proportions of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Noting that the World Health Organization (WHO) had declared 1 December 1988 World AIDS Day, the Assembly stressed the importance of observing that occasion (resolution 43/15). Today, some 40 million people are living with HIV/AIDS.

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery - 2/12/2010

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, 2 December, recalls the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of Others (resolution 317 (IV) of 2 December 1949).

International Day of Persons with Disabilities - 3/12/2010

On 18 December 2007, the Assembly decided to rename the International Day of Disabled Persons, observed every year on 3 December, as the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (resolution 62/127). It also called upon States that had no yet done so to consider signing and ratifying the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol as a matter of priority. The Convention was adopted on 13 December 2006.

The Assembly proclaimed the Day in 1992, at the conclusion of the United Nations Decade of Disabled Persons (1983-1992), by its resolution 47/3. The Decade had been a period of raising awareness and enacting measures to improve the situation of persons with disabilities and provide them with equal opportunities. Subsequently, the Assembly appealed to Member States to highlight the observance of the Day in order to further integrate people with disabilities into the society (resolution 47/88).

International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development - 5/12/2010

The General Assembly has invited Governments to observe the International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social Development on 5 December each year ( resolution 40/212 of 17 December 1985). It urged them to heighten awareness of the contribution made by volunteer service, thereby stimulating people in all walks of life to offer their services as volunteers, both at home and abroad. In 2001, the International Year of Volunteers, the Assembly adopted a set of recommendations on ways that Governments and the United Nations system could support volunteering and asked that they be widely disseminated (resolution 56/38 of 5 December 2001).

International Civil Aviation Day - 7/12/2010

In 1996, the General Assembly proclaimed 7 December as International Civil Aviation Day, and urged Governments, as well as national, regional, international and intergovernmental organizations, to take steps to observe it (resolution 51/33 of 6 December). the Day had been declared in 1992 by the Assembly of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), a United Nations specialized agency, to highlight and advance the benefits of international civil aviation. Observation of the Day started on 7 December 1994 - the fiftieth anniversary of the signing of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, which established ICAO.

International Anti-Corruption Day - 9/12/2010

International Anti-Corruption Day

On 31 October 2003, the General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption and requested that the Secretary-General designate the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as secretariat for the Convention's Conference of States parties ( resolution 58/4 ). The Assembly also designated 9 December as International Anti-Corruption Day, to raise awareness of corruption and of the role of the Convention in combating and preventing it. The Convention entered into force in December 2005.

Human Rights Day - 10/12/2010

All States and interested organizations were invited by the General Assembly in 1950 to observe 10 December as Human rights Day ( Resolution 423 (V) ). The Day marks the anniversary of the Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 and is the most important commemorative day of the human rights calendar.

International Mountain Day - 11/12/2010

The UN General Assembly designated 11 December, from 2003 onwards, as 'International Mountain Day' ( Resolution 57/245 ). This decision results from the success of the UN International Year of Mountains in 2002, which increased global awareness of the importance of mountains, stimulated the establishment of national committees in 78 countries and strengthened alliances through promoting the creation of the International Partnership for Sustainable Development in Mountain Regions, known as the 'Mountain Partnership (WSSD, Johannesburg, 2 September 2002). FAO was the designated lead coordinating agency for International Year of Mountains and is mandated to lead observance of International Mountain Day.

International Migrants Day - 18/12/2010

As recommended by the UN's Economic and Social Council (decision 2000/288 of 28 july 2000), the General Assembly has proclaimed 18 December International Migrants Day ( resolution 55/93 of 4 December 2000). On that day in 1990, the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families was adopted (resolution 45/158). The Assembly has stressed the need to make further efforts to ensure respect for the human rights and fundamental freedoms of all migrants. It is estimated that one in every 35 persons in the world is a migrant, living and working in a country other than his or her own. All countries have migrants among their population.

United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation - 19/12/2010

On 23 December 2004, the General Assembly declared 19 December of each year as the United Nations Day for South-South Cooperation ( resolution 58/220 ). This marks the date, in 1978, when the General Assembly endorsed the Buenos Aires Plan of Action for Promoting and Implementing Technical Cooperation among Developing Countries (resolution 33/134).

International Human Solidarity Day - 20/12/2010

In connection with its observance of the first United Nations Decade for the Eradication of Poverty (1997-2006), the General assembly, on 22 December 2005, decided to proclaim 20 December of each year as International Human Solidarity Day ( resolution 60/209 ). In taking that action, it recalled that the Millennium Declaration identified solidarity as one of the fundamental and universal values that should underlie relations between peoples in the twenty-first century.

Holocaust Remembrance Day - 27/01/2011

Rejecting any denial of the Holocaust as a historical event, either in full or in part, the General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution (A/RES/60/7) condemning "without reserve" all manifestations of religious intolerance, incitement, harassment or violence against persons or communities based on ethnic origin or religious belief, whenever they occur.

It decided that the United Nations would designate 27 January -– the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp -- as an annual International Day of Commemoration to honour the victims of the Holocaust, and urged Member States to develop educational programmes to instil the memory of the tragedy in future generations to prevent genocide from occurring again, and requested the United Nations Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the "Holocaust and the United Nations," as well as measures to mobilize civil society for Holocaust remembrance and education, in order to help prevent future acts of genocide.

The Holocaust was a turning point in history, which prompted the world to say "never again." The significance of resolution A/RES/60/7 is that it calls for a remembrance of past crimes with an eye towards preventing them in the future.

Holocaust Remembrance Day - 27/01/2011

Rejecting any denial of the Holocaust as a historical event, either in full or in part, the General Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution (A/RES/60/7) condemning "without reserve" all manifestations of religious intolerance, incitement, harassment or violence against persons or communities based on ethnic origin or religious belief, whenever they occur.

It decided that the United Nations would designate 27 January -– the anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp -- as an annual International Day of Commemoration to honour the victims of the Holocaust, and urged Member States to develop educational programmes to instil the memory of the tragedy in future generations to prevent genocide from occurring again, and requested the United Nations Secretary-General to establish an outreach programme on the "Holocaust and the United Nations," as well as measures to mobilize civil society for Holocaust remembrance and education, in order to help prevent future acts of genocide.

The Holocaust was a turning point in history, which prompted the world to say "never again." The significance of resolution A/RES/60/7 is that it calls for a remembrance of past crimes with an eye towards preventing them in the future.

World Day for Social Justice - 20/02/2011

At its sixty-second session, in November 2007, the General Assembly of the United Nations proclaimed 20 February as World Day of Social Justice. The day is to be observed for the first time in 2009.

Member states were invited to devote this special day to the promotion of concrete national activities in accordance with the objectives and goals of the World Summit for Social Development and the twenty-fourth session of the General Assembly, entitled “World Summit for Social Development and beyond: achieving social development for all in a globalizing world”.

International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - 21/03/2011

The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on 21 March. On that day, in 1960, police opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration in Sharpeville, South Africa, against the apartheid "pass laws". Proclaiming the Day in 1966, the General Assembly called on the international community to redouble its efforts to eliminate all forms of racial discrimination (resolution 2142 (XXI)).

World Water Day - 22/03/2011

World Water Day is held annually on 22 March as a means of focusing attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. This year's theme for World Water Day is "Water for Cities: Responding to the Urban Challenge.

An international day to celebrate freshwater was recommended at the 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED). The United Nations General Assembly responded by designating 22 March 1993 as the first World Water Day.

For more information please visit the official website or UNIC Canberra World Water Day page.

World Meteorological Day - 23/03/2011

Each year, on 23 March, the World Meteorological Organization, its 189 Members and the worldwide meteorological community celebrate World Meteorological Day around a chosen theme. This day commemorates the entry into force, on that date in 1950, of the WMO Convention creating the Organization. Subsequently, in 1951, WMO was designated a specialized agency of the United Nations System.

The Right to the Truth of Victims of Gross Human Rights Violations - 24/03/2011

On 21 December 2010, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 24 March as the International Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims.

The purpose of the Day is to:

• Honour the memory of victims of gross and systematic human rights violations and promote the importance of the right to truth and justice;

• Pay tribute to those who have devoted their lives to, and lost their lives in, the struggle to promote and protect human rights for all;

• Recognize, in particular, the important work and values of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero, of El Salvador, who was assasinated on 24 March 1980, after denouncing violations of the human rights of the most vulnerable populations and defending the principles of protecting lives, promoting human dignity and opposition to all forms of violence.

The UN General Assembly, in its resolution, invites all Member States, international organizations and civil society organizations and individuals, to observe the International Day in an appropriate manner.

Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade - 25/03/2011

The event is held annually pursuant to General Assembly resolution A/RES/62/122 of 17 December 2007, which called, inter alia, for 25 March to be designated as International Day of Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.

The resolution requested the Secretary-General, in collaboration with UNESCO, to establish an educational outreach programme to mobilize educational institutions, civil society and other organizations to inculcate in future generations the “causes, consequences and lessons of the transatlantic slave trade, and to communicate the dangers of racism and prejudice”.

World Autism Awareness Day - 02/04/2011

Autism is a lifelong developmental disability that manifests itself during the first three years of life. The rate of autism in all regions of the world is high and it has a tremendous impact on children, their families, communities and societies.

Throughout its history, the United Nations family has promoted the rights and well-being of the disabled, including children with developmental disabilities. In 2008, the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force, reaffirming the fundamental principle of universal human rights for all.

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously declared 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (A/RES/62/139) to highlight the need to help improve the lives of children and adults who suffer from the disorder so they can lead full and meaningful lives.

International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action - 04/04/2011

On 8 December 2005, the General Assembly declared that 4 April of each year shall be officially proclaimed and observed as the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action (A/RES/60/97).

It called for continued efforts by States, with the assistance of the United Nations and relevant organizations, to foster the establishment and development of national mine-action capacities in countries where mines and explosive remnants of war constitute a serious threat to the safety, health and lives of the civilian population, or an impediment to social and economic development at the national and local levels.

Commemoration of the Rwanda genocide - 07/04/2011

On 7 April every year, the UN commemorates the 1994 genocide in Rwanda, where more than 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus are estimated to have been killed within a period of 100 days.

Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare - 29/04/2011

The Conference of the States Parties at its Tenth Session (paragraph 23.3 of C-10/5, dated 11 November 2005) decided that a memorial Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare would be observed on 29 April each year––the date in 1997 on which the Chemical Weapons Convention entered into force.

This commemoration will provide an opportunity to pay tribute to the victims of chemical warfare, as well as to reaffirm the commitment of theOrganization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to the elimination of the threat of chemical weapons, thereby promoting the goals of peace, security, and multilateralism.

World Press Freedom Day - 03/05/2011

World Press Freedom Day is celebrated every year on 3 May worldwide. It is an opportunity to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom; to evaluate press freedom, to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty. "21st Century Media: New Frontiers, New Barriers" is the theme of World Press Freedom Day 2011.

By decision 48/432 of 20 December 1993, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 3 May as World Press Freedom Day. Since then, it has been celebrated each year on 3 May, the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek. The document calls for free, independent, pluralistic media worldwide characterizing free press as essential to democracy and a fundamental human right.

The Declaration of Windhoek is a statement of free press principles as put together by newspaper journalists in Africa during a UNESCO seminar on “Promoting an Independent and Pluralistic African Press” in Windhoek, Namibia, from 29 April to 3 May 1991.

International Day of Families - 15/05/2011

The International Day of Families is observed on the 15th of May every year. The Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly resolution in 1993 (A/RES/47/237) and reflects the importance the international community attaches to families. The International Day provides an opportunity to promote awareness of issues relating to families and increase the knowledge of the social, economic and demographic processes affecting families.

In its resolution, the General Assembly also noted that the family-related provisions of the outcomes of the major United Nations conferences and summits of the 1990s and their follow-up processes continue to provide policy guidance on ways to strengthen family-centred components of policies and programmes as part of an integrated comprehensive approach to development.

The International Day of Families has inspired a series of awareness-raising events, including national family days. In many countries, that day provides an opportunity to highlight different areas of interest and importance to families. Activities include workshops and conferences, radio and television programmes, newspaper articles and cultural programmes highlighting relevant themes.

The 2011's commemoration of the International Day of Families focuses on the "Confronting Family Poverty and Social Exclusion."

World No Tobacco Day - 31/05/2011

World No Tobacco Day is celebrated around the world every year on May 31. This yearly celebration informs the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what WHO is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

1961- International Health and Medical Research Year

1959/60 - World Refugee Year

World Information Society Day -17/05/2010

On 27 March 2006, the General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/60/252 proclaiming 17 May as annual World Information Society Day. This Day will help raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information communications technologies (ICTs) can bring to societies and economies, as well as of ways to bridge the digital divide.

International Day Of United Nations Peacekeepers - 29/05/2010

By resolution 57/129 of 11 December 2002, the General Assembly designated 29 May as the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers, to pay tribute to all the men and women who have served and continue to serve in United Nations peacekeeping operations for their high level of professionalism, dedication and courage, and to honour the memory of those who have lost their lives in the cause of peace.

International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression - 4/06/2010

On 19 August 1982, at its emergency special session on the question of Palestine, the General Assembly decided to commemorate 4 June of each year as the International Day of Innocent Children Victims of Aggression (resolution ES-7/8).

World Environment Day - 5/06/2010

World Environment Day, commemorated each year on 5 June, is one of the principal vehicles through which the United Nations stimulates worldwide awareness of the environment and enhances political attention and action.

World Oceans Day - 8/06/2010

In 2008, the United Nations General Assembly decided that, as from 2009, 8 June would be designated by the United Nations as “World Oceans Day” (resolution 63/111, paragraph 171). Many countries have celebrated World Oceans Day following the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, which was held in Rio de Janerio in 1992.

The oceans are essential to food security and the health and survival of all life, power our climate and are a critical part of the biosphere. The official designation of World Oceans Day is an opportunity to raise global awareness of the current challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans.

The theme of the inaugural observance of the World Oceans Day by the United Nations in 2009 is “Our Oceans, Our Responsibility”. The Division for Ocean Affairs and the Law of the Sea, in cooperation with the Department of Public Information, is organizing a number of events and activities at United Nations Headquarters in New York on 8 June 2009. http://www.un.org/Depts/los/reference_files/worldoceansday.htm

World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought - 17/06/2010

The World Day to Combat Desertification, celebrated each year on June 17, is part of an international campaign by the United Nations to tackle global environmental deterioration, in particular the degradation of drylands. The day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

The General Assembly therefore decided that, from 2001, 20 June would be celebrated as World Refugee Day.

This year the UN refugee agency, in its 60th year, will mark World Refugee Day with a rich and varied programme of events in locations worldwide and the launch of a new global awareness campaign. UNHCR will start rolling out the multimedia "One" campaign next week. Over the next six months it will increase awareness about the forcibly displaced and stateless by telling their powerful personal stories. The campaign will carry the message that "One Refugee Without Hope is too Many." Every day, millions of refugees face murder, rape and terror. We believe even 1 is too many.

Where to find UNPAN?

The UNPAN system is centred at the United Nations Headquarters in New York and draws upon existing regional/subregional institutions devoted to public administration and finance in the context of social and economic development. So far, it is comprised of the following online regional centres (ORCs): eight in Africa and three in the Arab States, four in Asia and the Pacific, four in Latin America and the Caribbean, four in Europe, and six in North America.

International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking - 26/06/2010

By resolution 42/112 of 7 December 1987, the General Assembly decided to observe 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking as an expression of its determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. This resolution recommended further action with regard to the report and conclusions of the 1987 International Conference on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

International Day of the World's Indigenous People - 9/08/2010

By resolution 49/214 of 23 December 1994, the General Assembly decided to celebrate the International Day of the World's Indigenous People on 9 August every year during the International Decade of the World's Indigenous People. In 2004 the Assembly proclaimed a Second International Decade by resolution 59/174. The goal of this Decade is to further strengthen international cooperation for the solution of problems faced by indigenous people in such areas as culture, education, health, human rights, the environment, and social and economic development.

International Youth Day - 12/08/2010

The General Assembly on 17 December 1999 in its resolution 54/120, endorsed the recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth (Lisbon, 8-12 August 1998) that 12 August be declared International Youth Day. The Assembly recommended that public information activities be organized to support the Day as a way to promote better awareness of the World Programme of Action for Youth to the Year 2000 and Beyond, adopted by the General Assembly in 1995 (resolution 50/81).

World Humanitarian Day - 19/08/2010

In December 2008, the General Assembly voted to observe World Humanitarian Day each year on 19 August, dedicated to increasing public understanding of humanitarian assistance activities worldwide and to honour humanitarian workers who have lost their lives or been injured in the course of their work.

The date coincides with the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the United Nations Office in Iraq in 2003, in which 22 people died. Among them was Sergio Vieira de Mello, at that time the UN’s High Commissioner for Human Rights and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General to Iraq.

The General Assembly invites all countries, the UN system and international and non-governmental organizations to observe the day annually in an appropriate manner.

For 2009, the Day has three objectives:• To draw attention to humanitarian needs worldwide;• To acknowledge the ongoing work of humanitarian staff around the globe;• To honour those who have lost their lives in humanitarian service.

International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition - 23/08/2010

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery, 2 December, recalls the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others [Resolution 317 (IV) of 2 December 1949]. The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition is celebrated every 23rd of August.

World Space Week - 4/09/2010

By resolution 54/68 of 6 December 1999, the General Assembly proclaimed World Space Week, to be observed between 4 and 10 October, to celebrate the contributions of space science and technology to the betterment of the human condition. The dates recall the launch, on 4 October 1957, of the first artificial satellite, Sputnik I, and the entry into force, on 10 October 1967, of the Treaty on Principles Governing the Activities of States in the Exploration and Use of Outer Space.

International Day of Democracy - 15/09/2010

On 8 November 2007, by Resolution A/Res/62/7, the General Assembly proclaimed 15 September as the International Day of Democracy, inviting Member States, the United Nations system and other regional, intergovernmental and non-governmental organizations to commemorate the Day. The International Day of Democracy provides an opportunity to review the state of democracy in the world. Democracy is as much a process as a goal and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, the national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

International Day For the Preservation of the Ozone Layer - 16/09/2010

On 19 December 1994, by A/RES/49/114, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 16 September the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commemorating the date, in 1987, on which the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer was signed. States are invited to devote the Day each year to promote, at the national level, activities in accordance with the objectives of the Montreal Protocol and its amendments.

International Day of Peace - 21/09/2010

The International Day of Peace was first established in 1981 by resolution 36/67 of the United Nations General Assembly to coincide with its opening session every September. In 2001 resolution 55/282 was strengthened to fix the date annually on 21 September and for it to be a day of nonviolence and cease-fire. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the Member States of the General Assembly.

World Maritime Day - 24/09/2010

Every year IMO celebrates World Maritime Day. The exact date is left to individual Governments but is usually celebrated during the last week in September. The day is used to focus attention on the importance of shipping safety, maritime security and the marine environment and to emphasize a particular aspect of IMO's work.

64th Session of the United Nations General Assembly - 28/09/2010

The General Assembly of the United Nations opened its sixty-fourth session on 15 September at United Nations Headquarters in New York. The annual general debate, which traditionally features statements by Heads of State and Government as well as Ministers, began on Wednesday, 23 September 2009, and concludes on 30 September 2009.

Established in 1945 under the Charter of the United Nations, the General Assembly occupies a central position as the chief deliberative, policymaking and representative organ of the United Nations. Comprising all 192 Members of the United Nations, it provides a unique forum for multilateral discussion of the full spectrum of international issues covered by the Charter. It also plays a significant role in the process of standard-setting and the codification of international law. The Assembly meets in regular session intensively from September to December each year, and thereafter as required.

Secretary-General Message International Year of Older Persons - 1/10/2010

On 14 December 1990, the United Nations General Assembly (by resolution 45/106) designated 1 October the International Day of Older Persons.

This was preceded by initiatives such as the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing - which was adopted by the 1982 World Assembly on Ageing - and endorsed later that year by the UN General Assembly.

In 1991, the General Assembly (by resolution 46/91) adopted the United Nations Principles for Older Persons.

In 2002, the Second World Assembly on Ageing adopted the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing, to respond to the opportunities and challenges of population ageing in the 21st century and to promote the development of a society for all ages.

The theme of the year 2010's commemoration is "Older persons and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs)". This year marks the twentieth anniversary of the UN International Day of Older Persons.

International Day of Non-Violence - 2/10/2010

Reaffirming the universal relevance of the principle of non-violence, and desiring to secure a culture of peace, tolerance, understanding and non-violence, the General Assembly has decided to observe 2 October as the International Day of Non-Violence. By its resolution 61/271 of 15 June 2007, the Assembly invited all Member States, organizations of the United Nations system, regional and non-governmental organizations and individuals to commemorate the Day in an appropriate manner and to disseminate the message of non-violence, including through education and public awareness.

The resolution originated from a Declaration adopted at the “International Conference on Peace, Non-Violence and Empowerment -- Gandhian Philosophy in the 21st Century”. Mahatma Gandhi was born on 2 October 1869.

World Habitat Day - 5/10/2010

By Resolution A/RES/40/202 the United Nations has designated the first Monday in October every year as World Habitat Day to reflect on the state of human settlements and the basic right to adequate shelter for all. It is also intended to remind the world of its collective responsibility for the future of the human habitat.

World Teachers Day - 5/10/2010

World Teachers' Day was inaugurated by UNESCO in 1994 to focus attention on the extraordinary contributions and achievements of teachers. The Day is celebrated internationally on October 5, the day in 1966 on which a joint UNESCO/ILO conference adopted a recommendation on the Status of Teachers.

World Post Day - 9/10/2010

World Post Day is celebrated each year on 9 October, the anniversary of the establishment of the Universal Postal Union in 1874 in the Swiss Capital, Bern. It was declared World Post Day by the UPU Congress held in Tokyo, Japan in 1969. Since then, countries across the world participate annually in the celebrations. The Posts in many countries use the event to introduce or promote new postal products and services.

World Mental Health Day - 10/10/2010

World Mental Health Day is celebrated on 10 October each year. It is an internationally recognised day to promote mental health and wellbeing around the world.

International Day For Natural Disaster Reduction - 14/10/2010

By resolution 44/236 (22 December 1989), the General Assembly designated the second Wednesday of October International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction. The International Day was to be observed annually during the International Decade for Natural Disaster Reduction, 1990-1999. In 2001, the General Assembly decided to maintain the observance of the International Day for Natural Disaster Reduction on the second Wednesday of October (resolution 56/195 of 21 December), as a vehicle to promote a global culture of natural disaster reduction, including disaster prevention, mitigation and preparedness.

International Day of Rural Women - 15/10/2010

The General Assembly has declared that 15 October of each year shall be officially proclaimed and observed as the International Day of Rural Women. By its resolution 62/136 of 18 December 2007, the Assembly urged Member States, in collaboration with the organizations of the United Nations and civil society, to undertake measures to improve the situation of rural women, including indigenous women, in their national, regional and global development strategies.

These measures include: creating an enabling environment to improve the situation of rural women; pursuing their political and socio-economic empowerment; supporting their full and equal participation in decision-making at all levels; integrating a gender perspective in the design, implementation, follow-up and evaluation of development policies and programmes; addressing their specific health needs; ensuring the rights of older women in rural areas to basic social services; mobilizing resources for increasing women’s access to existing savings and credit schemes; and integrating increased employment opportunities for rural women in all international and national development and poverty eradication strategies.

World Food Day - 16/10/2010

The aim of World Food Day, proclaimed in 1979 by the Conference of the FAO of the United Nations, is to heighten public awareness of the world food problem and strengthen solidarity in the struggle against hunger, malnutrition and poverty. The Day marks the date of the founding of the FAO in 1945. In 1980, the General Assembly endorsed observance of the Day in consideration of the fact that “food is a requisite for human survival and well-being and a fundamental human necessity” (resolution 35/70 of 5 December).

International Day for the Eradication of Poverty - 17/10/2010

The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty has been observed every year since 1993, when the General Assembly, by resolution 47/196, designated this day to promote awareness of the need to eradicate poverty and destitution in all countries, particularly in developing countries - a need that has become a development priority.

24-30 Oct Disarmament Week

The annual observance of Disarmament Week, which begins on the anniversary of the founding of the Untied Nations, was called for in the Final Document of the General Assembly 1978 special session on disarmament (resolution S-10/2). States were invited to highlight the danger of the arms race, propagate the need for its cessation and increase public understanding of the urgent tasks of disarmament.

In 1995, the Assembly invited Governments, as well as non-governmental organizations, to continue taking an active part in Disarmament Week (resolution 50/72 B of 12 December). It invited the Secretary-General to continue using the United Nations information entities as widely as possible to promote a better understanding among the public of disarmament problems and the aims of the Week.

World Development Information Day - 24/10/2010

The United Nations General Assembly instituted World Development Information Day at its twenty-seventh session in December 1972 (A/Res/3038 XXVII) with the object of drawing the attention of world public opinion each year to development problems and the necessity of strengthening international co-operation to solve them. The General Assembly also decided that World Development Information Day should coincide, in principle, with United Nations Day to stress the central role of development in the work of the United Nations.

World Diabetes Day - 14/11/2010

Welcoming the fact that the International Diabetes Federation has been observing World Diabetes Day globally since 1991, with co-sponsorship of the World Health Organization (WHO), the General Assembly, on 20 December 2006, designated 14 November, the current World Diabetes Day, as a United Nations Day, to be observed every year beginning in 2007 ( resolution 61/225 ).

Recognizing that diabetes is a chronic, debilitating and costly disease which poses serious challenges to development, the Assembly encouraged Member States to develop national policies for its prevention, treatment and care in line with the sustainable development of their health-care systems, taking account of internationally agreed development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.

The Assembly also invited all Member States, relevant organizations of the United Nations system and other international organizations, as well as civil society, including non-governmental organizations and the private sector, to observe World Diabetes Day in an appropriate manner, including through education and the mass media.

United Nations Day - 24/10/2010

The anniversary of the entry into force of the United Nations Charter -- 24 October 1945 -- has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. It has traditionally been marked throughout the world by meetings, discussions and exhibits on the achievements and goals of the Organization. In 1971, the General Assembly recommended that Member States observe it as a public holiday (resolution 2782 (XXVI)).

Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict - 6/11/2010

On 5 November 2001, the General Assembly declared 6 November of each year as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict ( resolution 56/4 ). In taking this action, it considered that damage to the environment in times of armed conflict impairs ecosystems and natural resources long after the period of conflict, often extending beyond the limits of national territories and the present generation.

International Day for Tolerance - 16/11/2010

In 1996, the General Assembly invited Member States to observe the International Day for Tolerance on 16 November, with activities directed towards both educational establishments and the wider public ( resolution 51/95 of 12 December). This action came in the wake of the United Nations Year for Tolerance, 1995, proclaimed by the Assembly in 1993 (resolution 48/126). The Year had been declared on the initiative of the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO); on 16 November 1995, the UNESCO member States had adopted the Declaration of Principles on Tolerance and Follow-up Plan of Action for the Year.

World Philosophy Day - 18/11/2010

Celebrated at UNESCO’s initiative every third Thursday of November since 2002, World Philosophy Day will take place this year on 18 November 2010.

World Philosophy Day was introduced in 2002 by UNESCO to honour philosophical reflection in the entire world by opening up free and accessible spaces. Its objective is to encourage the peoples of the world to share their philosophical heritage and to open their minds to new ideas, as well as to inspire a public debate between intellectuals and civil society on the challenges confronting our society.

Universal Children's Day - 20/11/2010

The General Assembly recommended in 1954 (resolution 836 (IX)) that all countries institute a Universal Children's Day, to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and understanding between children and of activity promoting the welfare of the world's children. It suggested to Governments that the Day be observed on the date which each considers appropriate. The date of 20 November marks the day in which the Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rigths of the Child, in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.

In Australia, Universal Children's Day is celebrated every year on the 4th Wednesday in October.

Africa Industrialization Day - 20/11/2010

Within the framework of the Second Industrialization Development Decade for Africa (1991-2000), the General Assembly proclaimed 20 November as Africa Industrialization Day ( resolution 44/237 of 22 December 1989). The Day is intended to mobilize the commitment of the international community to the industrialization of Africa.